In the quiet town of Pawlet, Vermont, a tragic event shattered the community on September 15, 2024. Brian Crossman Sr., a 46-year-old White/Caucasian male, was found deceased in his home on Vermont Route 133. Also discovered at the residence were the bodies of his 41-year-old wife, Erica Crossman, and her 13-year-old son, Colin Taft, who was Brian's stepson. The Vermont Chief Medical Examiner's Office later confirmed that all three deaths were homicides. Brian Crossman Sr.
died from gunshot wounds to the head and torso, while Erica Crossman sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the head, and Colin Taft suffered multiple gunshot wounds.
The investigation into the triple homicide led to the arrest of Brian Crossman Jr., the 23-year-old son of Brian Crossman Sr. He was subsequently charged with three counts of aggravated murder in connection with the deaths of his father, stepmother, and stepbrother. The killings are believed to have taken place in the early morning hours of September 15th inside the family's home.
According to police affidavits, Brian Crossman Jr., who was visiting for the weekend, used several shotguns from a gun cabinet in the home to commit the murders. Investigators found Erica Crossman and her son Colin in their respective bedrooms. Brian Crossman Sr.'s body appeared to have been moved to a mudroom. After the killings, around 3:30 a.m., Brian Crossman Jr. began making calls to 911 and family members. When he met with a Vermont State Police corporal, his clothes were covered in blood. He initially claimed to have been on a long walk and discovered the bodies upon his return. However, evidence at the scene contradicted his account. Family members had reportedly been concerned about his escalating mental health issues and his strained relationship with his father. Erica Crossman had even expressed fear of being alone with him.
